Photographer brought in for studies in swing
SEVERAL weeks ago, in our June 22 edition, we highlighted the plight of Brandhall Golf Course in Oldbury – closed down at the start of the pandemic and currently under threat of disappearing under a new housing development.
Thanks to Margaret Southall, who grew up in the area, we were able to share with you some fine photographs from an album put together by the golf club in the 1920s, and later entrusted to Margaret for safekeeping.
And here we have another selection from that album. At the top of the page are six members relaxing on chairs outside the club house, sporting wide variety of hat styles. Shown above and right are a couple of players in plus-fours; N.B. Rigby and C Monk, and in the handwritten preface to the album, by A.E.A. Edwards, we learn just why these pictures, two of dozens, were taken. Under the heading ‘This
Book is presented to the members of Brand Hall Golf Club, and is dedicated to their careful use by the editor,’ it reads:
“Some of the photographs in this book were originally taken to illustrate the individualities in golfing style among a few Brand-hallers.
“The first series proved of some interest to the general members, and it was determined to follow the suggestion of Mr Booley, to make a larger collection of snap shots and to help some fund by their sale.
“The editor therefore invited members to perpetuate their golfing style, and thus to help to purchase a cup for which the Ladies may compete annually. Should the money subscribed be overwhelming, the balance will go to improve the Ladies’ accommodation.
“Members should not look for artistic or other merit in the photographs, but should remember that each picture has fulfilled its mission by adding something to the object in view. Will other photographers help and send their pictures to the editor for insertion.”